The world of motorsport is taking a significant step forward in supporting female talent as all Formula 1 (F1) teams have agreed to extend their commitment to the all-female F1 Academy series beyond the current season. Originally set to conclude this year, the F1 Academy has now secured a multi-year partnership that will ensure all F1 teams continue to back drivers in the championship for the foreseeable future.

This announcement also sees the inclusion of the new Cadillac F1 team, set to enter the Formula 1 grid next season, joining the existing 10 teams in supporting female drivers. This move reinforces F1’s dedication to diversity and inclusion in motorsport, providing a structured pathway for women to advance through the ranks.

Rule Changes to Support Driver Development

In addition to team commitments, the F1 Academy has introduced a significant revision to its regulations. The current rule, which prevented drivers from competing in the series for more than two seasons, will be relaxed from 2027 onwards. Under the new guidelines, certain drivers may be granted an exemption to continue for a third season if their performance demonstrates continued potential and benefits their professional growth.

This initiative is described as a tailored approach to nurturing talent, ensuring that high-performing drivers have the opportunity to maximize their development before progressing to higher categories of motorsport.

Doriane Pin Leading the Championship

As the 2025 season nears its climax, French driver Doriane Pin leads the F1 Academy standings ahead of the final round in Las Vegas from 20-22 November. Pin, a Mercedes protege, has consistently showcased her speed and skill throughout the season. Dutch driver Maya Weug, part of the Ferrari Driver Academy, is currently in second place, while Great Britain’s Ella Lloyd also remains in close contention.

The F1 Academy, founded in 2023, was designed to provide a stepping stone for female drivers aiming to break into higher levels of motorsport. It seeks to widen the appeal of racing and increase the overall pool of women competing at elite levels.

Susie Wolff on Growing Female Talent

Susie Wolff, Managing Director of the F1 Academy, emphasized the long-term vision of the series:

“We’re not just providing a platform for the current generation of female drivers; together we’re building a pathway to support generations of talent to come. We continue to be impressed by the depth of female talent emerging from karting and are encouraged by the growth and strength of the emerging talent pool.”

Since its inception, the F1 Academy has grown in prominence. While it initially operated independently in 2023, from 2024 onwards, the series has been integrated into the support bill for several Formula 1 Grand Prix events. Each F1-backed driver competes in cars painted in their respective team colors, further emphasizing the connection between the Academy and the sport’s top tier.

Graduates and Future Stars

Previous champions have used the F1 Academy as a launchpad for their careers. Reigning champion Abbi Pulling, supported by Alpine in 2024, graduated to the GB3 championship in 2025, demonstrating the Academy’s role as a career pathway for female motorsport talent.

The extended support from F1 teams, combined with flexible regulations and ongoing talent development initiatives, cements the F1 Academy as the premier platform for aspiring female racing drivers. With the final race in Las Vegas set to determine this year’s champion, the spotlight is on Doriane Pin as she aims to follow in Pulling’s footsteps.